BLACK+DECKER Easy Garment Steamer
Model: HGS011 Series
Use and Care Manual
Important Safeguards
- Read all instructions before use.
- Check appliance before each use by holding it away from body.
- Use only for intended purpose.
- Do not immerse in water or other liquids.
- Always turn off before plugging/unplugging.
- Do not pull cord to disconnect; grasp plug.
- Keep cord away from hot surfaces; let steamer cool before storing.
- Unplug before filling, emptying, or cleaning, and when not in use.
- Do not operate with a damaged cord or if dropped/damaged/leaking.
- Do not disassemble or attempt to repair; contact qualified service.
- Close supervision is necessary when used by or near children.
- Do not leave unattended while connected.
- Burns can occur from hot water or steam; avoid turning upside down.
- Do not operate other high wattage appliances on the same circuit.
- Use a minimum 10-ampere rated extension cord if necessary.
- Do not use outdoors.
- Use only water; no perfumes, oils, or additives.
- Never steam clothing while on a body.
- Never aim steam directly at people, animals, or plants.
- Use unit in an upright position only; do not tilt.
- Not intended for use by persons with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or lack of experience, unless supervised.
- Children should be supervised to ensure they do not play with the appliance.
- Steamer must be used and rested on a stable surface.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS. This product is for household use only.
Polarized Plug (120V models only): To reduce electric shock risk, plug fits polarized outlet one way. If it doesn't fit, reverse it. Contact electrician if it still doesn't fit. Do not modify plug.
Tamper-Resistant Screw: Do not attempt to remove outer cover; no user-serviceable parts inside. Repair by authorized personnel only.
Parts and Features
- 1. Steam head: The part that emits steam.
- 2. Top: Removable part for filling the water tank.
- 3. Base: The lower part of the steamer.
- 4. Handle: For holding and operating the steamer.
- 5. Max fill water line: Indicates the maximum water level.
- 6. Water tank window: Allows viewing the water level.
- 7. On/Off switch: Controls power to the steamer.
- 8. 8 foot cord (not shown): Power supply cord.
Note: Product may vary slightly from illustration.
Getting Started
- Remove all labels, tags, stickers, and plastic bands from the steamer and cord.
- Save literature.
- Register your warranty at www.prodprotect.com/blackanddecker.
- Read all instructions before using.
- Use distilled, purified, or filtered water. Tap water contains minerals that build up.
- Note: Any water droplets visible inside the tank are from quality control tests.
- Do not use perfumes, oils, or other additives.
- Always review the garment manufacturer's care label instructions before steaming.
- Test fabrics for colorfastness in an inconspicuous area (e.g., inseam).
- Do not use on leather, suede, vinyl, or plastic.
- The steamer becomes hot during use.
How to Use
Hold the base firmly with one hand and the top with the other. Lift the top off.
Pour distilled, purified, or filtered water into the opening until it reaches the "MAX" level. Do not use oils, perfumes, or scented additives.
Replace the top and turn it clockwise until the arrows align and you feel a "click". Dry off any excess water.
Plug the steamer into a power outlet. Press the ON/OFF switch to ON.
The steamer will take approximately 75 seconds to heat up and generate steam.
Hang the garment against a heat/steam-proof surface. Hold the steamer by the handle in the upright position. Do not tilt. Hold the fabric taut while slowly moving the steamer. Keep hands away from steam.
When done, unplug the steamer, allow it to cool completely, empty the tank, wipe all surfaces with a soft cloth, reassemble, and store upright.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| The steamer is plugged in but not heating. | There's a power supply issue. | Check that the plug is properly inserted into the outlet or try plugging the steamer into a different outlet. |
| Not enough steam or no steam is coming out of the steamer. | The steamer isn't heated up to full temperature. | Always allow steamer to preheat at least 75 seconds. |
| There is not enough water in the water tank. | Follow the instructions under the “filling the water tank” section and fill to Max level marker. | |
| Calcium deposits have built up. | Follow the instructions under TIPS on how “To decalcify steamer”. | |
| Discolored water is coming through the holes and staining the fabric. | Residue has built up in the water tank. | Empty the water tank after each use. Only use distilled, filtered, or purified water. |
| Perfumed or scented additives were used. | Regularly clean steamer and refrain from using perfumed or scented additives. | |
| Starch was used. | Always clean steamer ironing plate after using starch. | |
| Steamer is leaking or spitting. | Steamer is not hot enough. | Allow the steamer to heat for about 75 seconds. |
| Condensation has built up. | Gently wipe the steam head with a soft, damp cloth to remove condensation. | |
| Water tank is running low. | Follow the instructions in the “How to Use” section and fill to Max level marker. |
Tips
- Sensitive items (such as items with embellishments) should be steamed from the inside of the garment to avoid damage.
- Allow clothing to cool for about 5 minutes after steaming to set the press.
- To decalcify steamer: Mix 1/2 white vinegar with 1/2 water. Plug in steamer and run half of the solution through the steamer. Unplug and let it sit for 30 min. Dump out. Repeat as needed until steam output improves. Run fresh water through steamer before using on clothes.
Cleaning and Care
This product contains no user-serviceable parts. Refer to qualified service personnel.
Cleaning Steamer Exterior
- Ensure steamer is unplugged and completely cool.
- Wipe the outer surface with a soft, damp cloth. Water and small amounts of gentle household soaps (like dishwashing liquid) can be used. Never use heavy-duty cleaners or abrasive scouring pads.
- After drying thoroughly, turn the steamer back on and lightly steam over an old cloth to remove any residue from steam holes.
Removing Mineral Buildup
- Ensure steamer is unplugged and completely cool.
- Mix half a cup of vinegar with half a cup of water.
- Remove the steamer head and slowly pour the mixture into the opening.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes and pour out.
- Rinse the water tank with water and replace the steamer head.
Storing the Steamer
- Check that the steamer is unplugged and completely cool.
- Wrap the cord loosely around the base of the steamer.
- Always store the steamer upright on its base to prevent water leakage.
Tip: Emptying the tank after each use is recommended as standing water can leave a residue over time.
Need Help?
For service, repair, or questions regarding your appliance, please call the Customer Service Line at 1-800-465-6070.
Please DO NOT return the product to the place of purchase, mail it to the manufacturer, or bring it to a service center. Consult the website listed on the cover of this pamphlet.
Warranty Information (Applies only in the United States and Canada)
What it covers: Any defect in material or workmanship. Spectrum Brands' liability will not exceed the purchase price of the product.
Duration: Two years from the date of original purchase with proof of purchase.
Service: A reasonably similar replacement product (new or factory refurbished) will be provided.
How to get service: Save your receipt. Visit www.prodprotect.com/blackanddecker or call toll-free 1-800-465-6070. For parts or accessories, call 1-800-738-0245.
State Law: This warranty gives specific legal rights; other rights may vary by state or province.
What is not covered: Damage from commercial use, misuse, abuse, neglect, unauthorized modifications, use/service outside the country of purchase, glass parts, accessory items, shipping/handling costs for replacement, consequential or incidental damages (some states may not allow these limitations).
Additional Exclusions: Warranty is not valid where contrary to applicable laws, or prohibited by economic sanctions, export control laws, embargos, or restrictive trade measures, including claims involving parties from Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Syria, and the disputed Crimea region.
Note: Spanish warranty information is also present in the original document but is merged into English for primary language output.
Distributors and Importers
This product is distributed and imported in various regions. Contact information for specific regions includes:
- Mexico: Spectrum Brands de México, S.A. de C.V.
- Argentina: SPECTRUM BRANDS ARGENTINA S.R.L.
- Bolivia: AIDISA BOLIVIA S.A.
- Chile: Inversiones la Mundial Ltda.
- Colombia: Spectrum Brands Corp, S.A.S.
- United States/Canada: Customer Care Line: 1-800-465-6070, Online Service: www.prodprotect.com/blackanddecker
For specific service and repair contact details in your region, please refer to the original documentation or contact the primary customer service line.
Made in China.
© 2020 The Black & Decker Corporation and Spectrum Brands, Inc.
At the end of this product’s life, you can mail it to Spectrum Brands at 507 Stokely Drive, Deforest, WI 53532 marked "Product Takeback: Please Recycle!"